Garden State Film Festival
Diane Raver is an accomplished professional in the film and theater industry, currently serving as the Executive Director of the New Jersey Film Academy since March 2024. Raver co-founded the Garden State Film Festival in 2002 alongside actor Robert Pastorelli, successfully launching the inaugural event in 2003, which attracted 3,000 attendees. With a background in community outreach as the Director at Algonquin Arts Theatre and leadership experience as President of The Madison Group, Raver has held significant roles in commercial production and sales across various companies. Raver's educational credentials include a BS in Textile Design from Philadelphia University and an AA in Fine Arts from Mount Ida College.
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Garden State Film Festival
The artistic philosophy of the Garden State Film Festival is rooted in the celebration of the independent film genre and the creation of a forum where local and other independent filmmakers can exhibit their work. In addition, our event provides novice and aspiring filmmakers, actors, and others interested in a career in the film business, the opportunity to meet and network with industry professionals in an atmosphere that is conducive to learning and mentoring. See you at the movies! History The Garden State Film Festival was born in 2002 after a chance encounter in a Sea Girt, NJ Grocery store by 25 year film industry veteran Diane Raver and the well known Hollywood actor Robert Pastorelli. Through his deep ties to Hollywood, Mr. Pastorelli and Ms. Raver were able to bring an all encompassing event to the State of New Jersey. It premiered in 2003 and was immediately deemed a huge success. Since that time, industry notables such as Glenn Close, Frank Vincent, Batman producer Michael Uslan, Austin Pendleton, Kurtwood Smith, James Gandolfini, Budd Schulberg, Clarence Clemons and others have lent their support. GSFF is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Our event is held on an annual basis in the spring of each year in Asbury Park, New Jersey. In addition GSFF provides a wide range of outreach and educational programs throughout the entire year. Mission The Garden State Film Festival was founded to promote the art of film making on all levels by showcasing a wide variety of film, video and animated works as well as provide educational programs in the creative arts to the public by industry leaders.